Jul 14 2026

Calamari Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Fried calamari served with lemon crown and cocktail sauce

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure they are completely dry to achieve a crispy texture when fried.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well until all dry ingredients are evenly blended.

  3. 3

    Prepare Egg Mixture

    In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. This mixture will help the dry ingredients adhere to the calamari.

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully covered. Place the coated rings on a plate and set aside.

  5. 5

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the batter into it; if it sizzles and rises, the oil is ready.

  6. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.

  7. 7

    Drain and Serve

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all calamari are cooked.

  8. 8

    Garnish

    Serve the fried calamari hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Cocktail Sauce Preparation

  1. 9

    Mix the Sauce

    In a small bowl, combine ketchup, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Mix well until fully blended.

  2. 10

    Taste and Adjust

    Taste the cocktail sauce and adjust seasoning as desired. Add more horseradish for extra heat or more ketchup for sweetness.

  3. 11

    Serve

    Transfer the cocktail sauce to a small serving bowl and serve alongside the fried calamari.

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